DaSheek Akwenye was born and raised in Windhoek, Namibia and came to the U.S on a Track & Field scholarship. He is a former student-athlete competed at Utah Valley State College & Utah State University.

DaSheek was born and raised in Windhoek, Namibia and came to the U.S on a Track & Field scholarship. He is a former student-athlete competed at Utah Valley State College & Utah State University. DaSheek is grateful for Higher Education and his experience as a Student-Athlete for affording him the opportunity to overcome adversity and teaching him what it means to succeed as a “student” first and “athlete” second. Enrolling into college as a first-generation international student, DaSheek has had to overcome a variety of personal challenges that have helped him aspire to grow professionally as well as personally.

DaSheek received his Bachelor’s degree in Journalism with a minor in Communications and a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from Utah State University with a minor in Corporate Wellness. During his time as a student-athlete, DaSheek was a recipient of the Aggie Achievement Award for his outstanding ability to overcome personal challenges as a student-athlete at Utah State University and succeeding both in and out of the classroom. DaSheek is also a prior recipient of the Board of Trustees Award of Excellence, Student Affairs Award of Excellence and Champion of Inclusion Award.

 

DaSheek has served on various committees in higher education. He is most passionate about Diversity, Equity & Inclusion work. Being a former international and underrepresented student himself, this work is critical to an institution to better help serve our diverse and marginalized community of students that come from all walks of life feel welcome, safe, and at home. DaSheek enjoys interacting and helping students find their niche on campus and chase their passions through engaging and life changing programing and services offered within his department, "The Center for Health & Counseling" at Salt Lake Community College. DaSheek finds energy in leading his team and collaborating with other departments in creating opportunities that inspire student engagement & success through improving emotional, psychological and social well-being for the mind, body and spirit.

DaSheek and his wife Jocelyn have four kids (Davian, Nyla, Avi & Tayden). DaSheek loves all dimensions of exercising, meditating, and reading. He also enjoys spending time with his family, playing a variety of sports, and supporting and attending family sporting events.